Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin with a Kick-Off to Kindergarten student in Bridgeport
There may be no more exciting milestone than a child's first step into school. For children with little or no prior preschool or classroom experience, that first step can also be one of the biggest. That's why The Carver is proud to partner with Bridgeport Public Schools each summer to offer Kick-Off to Kindergarten (KOK), a free early-intervention bridge program that helps Bridgeport's youngest learners begin their educational journey with confidence.
Funded in part by the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation, Kick-Off to Kindergarten is designed specifically for incoming kindergarten students who would benefit from additional preparation before the school year begins. This July, the program welcomed students at five Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS): Cesar A. Batalla School, Geraldine W. Claytor Magnet Academy, Interdistrict Discovery Magnet School, Jettie S. Tisdale School, and Waltersville School.
Recently, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, Chief Program Officer Brian Allert, and Manager of Middle and High School Programs Mary Martini visited several program sites to see the children in action. They were joined by BPS leaders Lindsay Davis, Director of Early Childhood; Stephanie Volturno; and Patti Sorrentino-Galello.
As they toured classrooms, they watched students eagerly participate in literacy and project-based activities, collaborate with classmates, explore hands-on learning experiences, and proudly demonstrate the confidence they had already gained in just a few short weeks. The smiles, curiosity, and growing independence captured in the photo gallery below tell the story better than words ever could.
Over four weeks, children attend daily sessions led by certified Bridgeport Public Schools teachers and credentialed early childhood paraprofessionals. Small class sizes allow educators to provide individualized attention while introducing students to the routines, expectations, and joys of a classroom environment. Breakfast and lunch are provided each day, ensuring students are ready to learn from the moment they arrive.
Carver Chief Program Officer Brian Allert appreciates the project-based learning materials offered to students attending the Kick-Off to Kindergarten summer program at six sites across six Bridgeport Public Schools.
The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to build both academic readiness and social-emotional confidence. Students explore early literacy through stories, phonics, vocabulary, and language-rich activities while strengthening early math skills through counting and hands-on learning. Just as importantly, they practice essential kindergarten behaviors—sharing, taking turns, following directions, building friendships, and developing the self-regulation skills that help children thrive in school.
The impact of Kick-Off to Kindergarten is measurable. Using the nationally recognized Brigance Screen III assessment, Bridgeport Public Schools has consistently documented significant growth during the four-week program, with students averaging more than 14 points of improvement before kindergarten even begins. Those gains represent children entering school more confident, more prepared, and better equipped to succeed from their very first day.
Carver program manager, Mary Martini, standing in the background (Left) speaking with a Kick-Off to Kindergarten staff member
Since launching its partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools in 2018, beginning with the Classical Studies Magnet Academy Extended Day Program, The Carver has continued expanding opportunities for Bridgeport students and families. Kick-Off to Kindergarten reflects that long-term commitment by helping ensure that children begin school on a strong foundation, one that can influence their academic success for years to come.
The Carver extends its heartfelt appreciation to Bridgeport Public Schools, the dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals, participating families, and especially the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation, whose continued investment helps make this important work possible. Together, we are proving that when children receive the right support before kindergarten begins, they don't just start school—they start strong.
